[Pankaj6in]

Introduction
Hey everyone, if you’re in the world of industrial networking, you know how crucial reliable Ethernet switches are. Today, I’m diving into the Moxa EDS-208A Series – a lineup of unmanaged industrial Ethernet switches designed to handle the toughest conditions out there. Whether you’re setting up networks in factories, on ships, or along railways, these switches promise durability and performance without the hassle of complex configurations. I pulled this info straight from Moxa’s official datasheet, and let me tell you, it’s packed with features that make it stand out.
Imagine a switch that can survive extreme temperatures, vibrations, and even hazardous environments like explosive atmospheres. That’s the EDS-208A in a nutshell. Moxa, a leader in industrial connectivity, has engineered this series to support IEEE standards for seamless 10/100 Mbps connections, with options for fiber optics to extend your reach. It’s all about redundancy and ruggedness here – dual power inputs ensure your network stays up even if one source fails, and the IP30 aluminum housing keeps dust and debris at bay.
In this blog, I’ll break down the features, specs, applications, and more. By the end, you’ll see why the EDS-208A might be the perfect fit for your next project. Let’s get into it!

Key Features That Set It Apart
What makes the EDS-208A series a go-to for industrial pros? Let’s start with the basics. These switches come with 8 ports in total, mixing 10/100BaseT(X) RJ45 connectors for copper connections and optional 100BaseFX fiber ports (multi-mode or single-mode, with SC or ST connectors). This flexibility means you can adapt to different network needs – short-range copper for local setups or fiber for longer distances without signal degradation.
One standout feature is the redundant dual power inputs supporting 12/24/48 VDC. In industrial settings, power fluctuations are common, but with the EDS-208A, you can connect two sources simultaneously for failover protection. Plus, it has built-in reverse polarity and overload current protection, so you won’t fry your equipment during installation mishaps.
Broadcast storm protection is another gem, easily toggled via DIP switches. If you’ve ever dealt with network loops causing endless data floods, you’ll appreciate how this prevents downtime. And for those extreme environments? The series is certified for hazardous locations (Class 1 Div. 2 and ATEX Zone 2), maritime use (DNV/GL/LR/ABS/NK), transportation (NEMA TS2/EN 50121-4/e-Mark), and more. It’s like Moxa thought of every tough spot – from oil rigs to moving vehicles.
Temperature-wise, standard models handle -10 to 60°C, while -T versions go from -40 to 75°C. That’s perfect for outdoor or unconditioned spaces where consumer-grade switches would fail. The rugged design isn’t just talk; these switches undergo 100% burn-in testing to ensure reliability in automation control.
industrialnetworking.comEDS-208 Series Switches
Diving into the Technical Specifications
Alright, let’s geek out on the specs. The Ethernet interface is straightforward but powerful. All ports support auto-negotiation for speed, full/half-duplex modes, and MDI/MDI-X auto-sensing – no more crossing cables manually. Depending on the model, you get 6 to 8 copper ports, with up to 2 fiber ports for extended reach.
For fiber optics, multi-mode options (SC/ST) cover typical distances of 4-5 km, using 1300 nm wavelength with a link budget that handles dispersion well. Single-mode SC connectors push it to 40 km, ideal for sprawling industrial sites. Moxa even notes to use attenuators for single-mode to avoid overpowering the receiver – a pro tip right in the datasheet.
On the switch side, it boasts a 2K MAC table size and 768 kbits packet buffer, using store-and-forward processing for error-free transmission. Power consumption is low – around 0.11 to 0.15 A at 24 VDC – making it energy-efficient for always-on setups. The input voltage range is broad (9.6 to 60 VDC), with a removable terminal block for easy wiring.
Physically, it’s compact: 50 x 114 x 70 mm, weighing just 275 grams. Installation options include DIN-rail or wall mounting (kit optional), and the IP30 rating ensures protection against solid objects. Environmentally, it operates in 5-95% humidity (non-condensing) and stores from -40 to 85°C.
Certifications are extensive – EMC compliance with EN 55032/24, EMI via CISPR 32 and FCC Part 15B, and EMS tests for ESD, RS, EFT, surge, CS, and PFMF. It also meets shock, vibration, and freefall standards like IEC 60068 series. With an MTBF of over 2.7 million hours (per Telcordia), this switch is built to last, backed by a 5-year warranty.

Real-World Applications and Benefits
So, where does the EDS-208A shine? Think harsh industrial automation: factories with heavy machinery, where vibrations and dust are daily challenges. Its rugged build and certifications make it ideal for oil and gas (hazardous locations), ensuring safe, reliable networking in explosive areas.
In transportation, it’s a winner for railways (EN 50121-4 compliant) and highways (NEMA TS2). Picture switches along train tracks or in traffic control systems, enduring weather extremes and constant movement. For maritime environments, approvals from ABS, DNV-GL, LR, and NK mean it’s seaworthy for ships or offshore platforms, resisting salt spray and humidity.
Mobile applications, like vehicles with e-Mark certification, benefit from its compact size and wide temp range. In renewable energy setups, such as wind farms or solar plants in remote areas, the fiber options extend connections without repeaters, saving costs.
The benefits? Reduced downtime thanks to redundancy, easy setup with unmanaged design, and compliance that avoids regulatory headaches. For engineers, the DIP switches offer quick tweaks without software, and the low power draw fits green initiatives. Overall, it’s a cost-effective way to build resilient networks that keep operations running smoothly.
Ordering Information and Accessories
Ready to get one? The series has various models: Basic EDS-208A with 8 RJ45 ports (-10 to 60°C), or -T for wide temp. Add fiber: M for multi-mode (SC/ST), S for single-mode SC, with one or two ports (MM/SS). Prices aren’t listed in the datasheet, but check Moxa’s site for quotes.
Accessories include power supplies like DR-120-24 (120W DIN-rail) or MDR-60-24 (60W, wide temp). Wall-mount kits (WK-30/46) and rack-mount (RK-4U) make installation versatile. The package comes with the switch, quick guide, and warranty card – straightforward.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, the Moxa EDS-208A Series is a solid choice for anyone needing tough, reliable Ethernet switching in demanding environments. Its blend of features, certifications, and ease of use makes it versatile across industries. If you’re upgrading your network, give these a look – they could save you headaches down the line.

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